Coke Studio Bangla has released the finale of Season 3, presenting a stirring contemporary rendition of the Sufi classic “Mast Qalandar”, performed by beloved musical icon Runa Laila. Released on 16 November—just ahead of her birthday—the track serves as a heartfelt tribute to a voice that has shaped the musical landscape of the subcontinent.

Reimagined and produced by Shayan Chowdhury Arnob and Adit Rahman, the song blends the spiritual depth of traditional Qawwali with the melodic nuances of Bangladeshi heritage. It opens with a soulful Bangla verse by Hason Raja, rendered with emotional clarity by Makhon Mia, before transforming into a fusion of Sufi intensity, folk texture, and modern orchestration. The production unites a cross-generational ensemble, featuring veteran musician Foad Nasser Babu and emerging Coke Studio Bangla talents, creating a soundscape that is both nostalgic and refreshingly new.

Mast Qalandar has long been a signature piece in Runa Laila’s illustrious career, which spans over six decades and more than 18 languages. Her voice has connected audiences across Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and the global South Asian diaspora. This new rendition pays homage to her earlier iconic version, revitalising it for a new generation.

“Mast Qalandar has always been close to my heart,” Runa Laila said. “Performing it again in a new style with younger musicians has been a rewarding experience, and I’m happy to see this song live on across generations.”

Arnob, the show’s curator and composer, reflected on the finale: “This song carries memories, devotion, and cultural identity. Bringing Runa Laila apu’s voice back to this timeless anthem is a moment of collective pride. ‘Mast Qalandar’ is more than music—it is a bridge between generations.”